Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Dallas Stars home game

• Texas ends surprise bills for ambulance rides

• A deep dive into the life of Erik Jonsson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

In what year did Dallas host the World Series for the first time?

A) 1996

B) 2003

C) 2010

D) 2015

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The tallest building in Dallas is A) Bank of America Plaza.

News

💼 Business

UTSW developed a device that isolates blood flow to the brain, mimicking heart rhythms and volume. (Link)

MB2 Dental secured a $2.3 billion debt facility for expansion. (Link)

Texas implemented a law to end surprise bills for ambulance rides. (Link)

NTCAR honored Lynn Dowdle with its Stemmons Service Award for contributions to the commercial real estate sector. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Dallas Stars advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, setting expectations high against Seattle. (Link)

FC Dallas introduces Nico Estévez as the new head coach, signaling a fresh direction for the team. (Link)

Arike Ogunbowale scores a season-high, leading the Dallas Wings to victory over the Phoenix Mercury. (Link)

The Texas Rangers celebrate their first World Series title, highlighting six underrated heroes of their success. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Finalists for the 2024 Mergers & Acquisitions Awards were announced, celebrating notable transactions in North Texas. (Link)

Highland Park resident and physicians indicted in a $70 million university athletic and healthcare fraud case. (Link)

Dallas company introduces innovative payment models for surgery, potentially reshaping healthcare finance. (Link)

CBRE's Elizabeth Herman Fulton received the Young Citizen Award from NTCAR for her achievements in commercial real estate. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ TCU Horned Frogs vs. Washington State Cougars 
Lupton Stadium, Fort Worth
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | (More Info)

🏒  Dallas Stars vs. New York Islanders 
American Airlines Center, Dallas
Monday, Feb 26th | (More Info)

🏀 Texas Legends vs. G League Ignite Comerica Center Tuesday, Feb. 27th | (More Info)

Music

🎤Olivia Rodrigo & Chappell Roan
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Friday, Mar 1st | (More Info)

🎸Indigo Girls
Longhorn Ballroom, Dallas, TX
Friday, Mar 1st | (More Info)

🎵 Lany
South Side Ballroom at Gilley's, Dallas, TX
Friday, Mar 1st | (More Info)

🎶 Gregory Alan Isakov 
The Factory in Deep Ellum, Dallas, TX
Friday, Mar 1st | (More Info)

Family

🚚 Monster Jam 
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
March 2nd | (More Info)

🍀 North Texas Irish Festival 
Fair Park, Dallas, TX
Mar 1-3, 2024 | Times vary across days | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Dallas streets bustling with holographic advertisements” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Dallas Historical Events

1872: Arrival of the first railroad in Dallas.

The arrival of the first railroad in Dallas in 1872 heralded a new era of economic prosperity and connectivity for the city. Before the railroad, Dallas was a relatively isolated community, with its growth constrained by the limitations of road transport and the distance from major markets. The completion of the Houston and Texas Central Railway changed this dynamic overnight, linking Dallas directly to the broader national rail network. This connection significantly reduced transportation costs and times, making it easier for Dallas to export its agricultural products and import goods necessary for its development and the well-being of its residents.

The immediate impact of the railroad was seen in the rapid increase in population and the expansion of the city's commercial sectors. Entrepreneurs, merchants, and new residents were drawn to Dallas, attracted by the opportunities presented by the rail link. This influx of people and businesses led to a bustling urban center, with new shops, warehouses, and industries emerging to cater to the growing demand. The railroad also encouraged the development of surrounding areas, as farmers and producers could now easily transport their goods to Dallas for distribution, further integrating the city into the regional economy.

Moreover, the railroad's arrival transformed Dallas into a pivotal transportation and logistics hub in Texas. It became a critical point in the movement of goods across the state and to distant markets, enhancing its strategic importance. The economic benefits were manifold, leading to increased investments in infrastructure, housing, and public services to accommodate the growing population and economic activities. The railroad's influence on Dallas was profound, setting a foundation for its future growth into a major American city. It marked the beginning of Dallas's transition from a frontier town to an essential node in the national economic landscape.

Famous People From Dallas

Erik Jonsson (1901–1995)

Early Life and Educational Pursuits (1901-1922)

Erik Jonsson was born in 1901 in Brooklyn, New York, to Swedish immigrant parents. His early life was marked by a keen interest in engineering and technology, a passion that led him to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Jonsson's education laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the burgeoning field of electronics and his significant contributions to the industry.

Co-founding Texas Instruments (1923-1951)

After completing his education and gaining valuable experience in various engineering and management positions, Jonsson co-founded Geophysical Service Inc. in 1930, which would later become Texas Instruments (TI). Under Jonsson's leadership, TI evolved into a leading innovator in the semiconductor industry, pioneering the development and production of silicon transistors and integrated circuits. His vision and managerial acumen were instrumental in establishing TI as a global technology powerhouse.

Innovation and Expansion at Texas Instruments (1952-1964)

During his tenure at Texas Instruments, Jonsson oversaw significant technological breakthroughs, including the invention of the handheld calculator and the commercial production of silicon semiconductor devices. These innovations not only revolutionized the electronics industry but also had a profound impact on various sectors, including computing, telecommunications, and defense.

Civic Leadership and Mayor of Dallas (1964-1971)

Jonsson's influence extended beyond the boardroom and into civic leadership. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Jonsson stepped into the role of mayor, a position he held from 1964 to 1971. His tenure as mayor was characterized by a focus on urban renewal, education, and infrastructure development, aiming to improve the city's image and quality of life in the wake of the national tragedy.

Education Reform and Philanthropy (Throughout Career)

A passionate advocate for education, Jonsson played a pivotal role in the establishment of the University of Texas at Dallas, envisioning a top-tier research institution that would drive innovation and economic growth in the region. His philanthropic efforts, particularly in the realms of education and urban development, left a lasting legacy on the city of Dallas and its communities.

Relevance to Dallas (Throughout Career)

Jonsson's contributions to Dallas extended far beyond his tenure as mayor. As a business leader and philanthropist, he was instrumental in shaping the city's economic landscape, championing initiatives that promoted technological innovation, urban planning, and educational excellence. His vision for Dallas as a modern, vibrant city was reflected in his numerous civic projects and philanthropic endeavors.

Later Years and Reflection on Achievements (1972-1995)

In his later years, Jonsson continued to be an active participant in Dallas's civic and business communities, reflecting on his achievements and the city's progress. His ongoing involvement in educational and urban development projects underscored his commitment to the city's future.

Death and Enduring Influence (1995)

Erik Jonsson passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, civic leadership, and philanthropy. His contributions to Dallas and the field of technology have had a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of leaders and innovators.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founded Texas Instruments, leading the company to become a pioneer in the semiconductor industry.

• Served as Mayor of Dallas, focusing on urban renewal, education, and infrastructure.

• Played a key role in the establishment of the University of Texas at Dallas, promoting higher education and research.

• His leadership and philanthropy had a profound impact on the city of Dallas, shaping its economic and cultural landscape.

Erik Jonsson's journey from an engineer and entrepreneur to a transformative civic leader exemplifies a life dedicated to innovation, public service, and community development. As a co-founder of Texas Instruments, Jonsson revolutionized the technology industry, while his tenure as mayor of Dallas and his philanthropic efforts significantly contributed to the city's growth and prosperity. His legacy, characterized by visionary leadership and a commitment to improving society, continues to influence Dallas and the broader technological and educational communities.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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